#Festive Car Rendering

[motogadi]

AI Alchemy: Transforming Rolls Royce Ghost into a Christmas Fantasy!

Step into the realm where artificial intelligence meets automotive elegance, as we unveil a mesmerizing creation – a Rolls Royce Ghost adorned with the enchanting spirit of Christmas! This AI masterpiece is more than just pixels; it’s a digital symphony that blends luxury and festivity in a truly viral masterpiece. 1. The Marriage of Luxury and Festivity: Imagine the iconic Rolls Royce Ghost, a…

[mostlysignssomeportents]

"Efficiency" left the Big Three vulnerable to smart UAW tactics

Tomorrow (September 22), I'm (virtually) presenting at the DIG Festival in Modena, Italy. Tomorrow night, I'll be in person at LA's Book Soup for the launch of Justin C Key's "The World Wasn’t Ready for You." On September 27, I'll be at Chevalier's Books in Los Angeles with Brian Merchant for a joint launch for my new book The Internet Con and his new book, Blood in the Machine.

It's been 143 days since the WGA went on strike against the Hollywood studios. While early tactical leaks from the studios had studio execs chortling and twirling their mustaches about writers caving once they started losing their homes, the strikers aren't wavering – they're still out there, pounding the picket lines, every weekday:

https://www.cnbc.com/2023/08/09/how-hollywood-writers-make-ends-meet-100-days-into-the-writers-guild-strike.html

The studios obviously need writers. That gleeful, anonymous studio exec who got such an obvious erotic charge at the thought of workers being rendered homeless as punishment for challenging his corporate power completely misread the room, and his comments didn't demoralize the writers. Instead, they inspired the actors to go on strike, too.

But how have the writers stayed out since May Day? How have the actors stayed out for 69 days since their strike started on Bastille Day? We can thank the studios for that! As it turns out, the studios have devoted so much energy to rendering creative workers as precarious as possible, hiring as little as they can getting away with and using punishing overtime as a substitute for adequate staffing that they've eliminated all the workers who can't survive on side-hustles and savings for six or seven months at a time.

But even for those layoff-hardened workers, long strikes are brutal, and of course, all the affiliated trades, from costumers to grips, are feeling the pain. The strike fund only goes so far, and non-striking, affected workers don't even get that. That's why I've been donating regularly to the Entertainment Community Fund, which helps all affected workers out with cash transfers (I just gave them another $500):

https://secure2.convio.net/afa/site/Donation2?df_id=8117&8117.donation=form1&mfc_pref=T

As hot labor summer is revealed as a turning point – not just a season – long strikes will become the norm. Bosses still don't believe in worker power, and until they get their minds right, they're going to keep on trying to starve their workforces back inside. To get a sense of how long workers will have to hold out, just consider the Warrior Met strike, where Alabama coal-miners stayed out for 23 months:

https://www.thenation.com/article/activism/warrior-met-strike-union/

As Kim Kelly explained to Adam Conover in the latest Factually podcast, the Alabama coal strikers didn't get anywhere near the attention that the Hollywood strikers have enjoyed:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvyMHf7Yg0Q

(To learn more about the untold story of worker organizing, from prison unions to the key role that people of color and women played in labor history, check out Kelly's book, "Fight Like Hell," now in paperback:)

https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Fight-Like-Hell/Kim-Kelly/9781982171063

Which brings me to the UAW strike. This is an historic strike, the first time that the UAW has struck all of the Big Three automakers at once. Past autoworkers' strikes have marked turning points for all American workers. The 1945/46 GM strike established employers' duty to cover worker pensions, health care, and cost of living allowances. The GM strike created the American middle-class:

https://prospect.org/labor/2023-09-18-uaw-strikes-built-american-middle-class/

The Big Three are fighting for all the marbles here. They are refusing to allow unions to organize EV factories. Given that no more internal combustion cars will be in production in just a few short years, that's tantamount to eliminating auto unions altogether. The automakers are flush with cash, including billions in public subsidies from multiple bailouts, along with billions more from greedflation price-gouging. A long siege is inevitable, as the decimillionaires running these companies earn their pay by starving out their workers:

https://www.businessinsider.com/general-motors-ceo-mary-barra-salary-auto-workers-strike-uaw-2023-9

The UAW knows this, of course, and their new leadership – helmed by the union's radical president Shawn Fain – has a plan. UAW workers are engaged in tactical striking, shutting down key parts of the supply chain on a rolling basis, making the 90-day strike fund stretch much farther:

https://prospect.org/blogs-and-newsletters/tap/2023-09-18-labors-militant-creativity/

In this project, they are greatly aided by Big Car's own relentless pursuit of profit. The automakers – like every monopolized, financialized sector – have stripped all the buffers and slack out of their operations. Inventory on hand is kept to a bare minimum. Inputs are sourced from the cheapest bidder, and they're brought to the factory by the lowest-cost option. Resiliency – spare parts, backup machinery – is forever at war with profits, and profits have won and won and won, leaving auto production in a brittle, and easily shattered state.

This is especially true for staffing. Automakers are violently allergic to hiring workers, because new workers get benefits and workplace protection. Instead, the car companies routinely offer "voluntary" overtime to their existing workforce. By refusing this overtime, workers can kneecap production, without striking.

Enter "Eight and Skate," a campaign among UAW workers to clock out after their eight hour shift. As Keith Brower Brown writes for Labor Notes, the UAW organizers are telling workers that "It’s crossing an unofficial picket line to work overtime. It’s helping out the company":

https://labornotes.org/2023/09/work-extra-during-strike-auto-workers-say-eight-and-skate

Eight and Skate has already started to work; the Buffalo Ford plant can no longer run its normal weekend shifts because workers are refusing to put in voluntary overtime. Of course, bosses will strike back: the next step will be forced overtime, which will lead to the unsafe conditions that unionized workers are contractually obliged to call paid work-stoppages over, shutting down operations without touching the strike fund.

What's more, car bosses can't just halt safety stoppages or change the rules on overtime; per the UAW's last contract, bosses are required to bargain on changes to overtime rules:

https://uaw.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Working-Without-Contract-FAQ-FINAL-2.pdf

Car bosses have become lazily dependent on overtime. At GM's "highly profitable" SUV factory in Arlington, TX, normal production runs a six-days, 24 hours per day. Workers typically work five eight-hour days and nine hours on Saturdays. That's been the status quo for 11 years, but when bosses circulated the usual overtime signup sheet last week, every worker wrote "a big fat NO" next to their names.

Writing for The American Prospect, David Dayen points out that this overtime addiction puts a new complexion on the much-hyped workerpocalypse that EVs will supposedly bring about. EVs are much simpler to build than conventional cars, the argument goes, so a US transition to EVs will throw many autoworkers out of work:

https://prospect.org/labor/2023-09-20-big-threes-labor-shortages-uaw/

But the reality is that most autoworkers are doing one and a half jobs already. Reducing the "workforce" by a third could leave all these workers with their existing jobs, and the 40-hour workweek that their forebears fought for at GM inn 1945/46. Add to that the additional workers needed to make batteries, build and maintain charging infrastructure, and so on, and there's no reason to think that EVs will weaken autoworker power.

And as Dayen points out, this overtime addiction isn't limited to cars. It's also endemic to the entertainment industry, where writers' "mini rooms" and other forms of chronic understaffing are used to keep workforces at a skeleton crew, even when the overtime costs more than hiring new workers.

Bosses call themselves job creators, but they have a relentless drive to destroy jobs. If there's one thing bosses hate, it's paying workers – hence all the hype about AI and automation. The stories about looming AI-driven mass unemployment are fairy tales, but they're tailor made for financiers who get alarming, life-threatening priapism at the though of firing us all and replacing us with shell-scripts:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/03/09/autocomplete-worshippers/#the-real-ai-was-the-corporations-that-we-fought-along-the-way

This is why Republican "workerism" rings so hollow. Trump's GOP talks a big game about protecting "workers" (by which they mean anglo men) from immigrants and "woke captialism," but they have nothing to say about protecting workers from bosses and bankers who see every dime a worker gets as misappropriated from their dividend.

Unsurprisingly, conservative message-discipline sucks. As Luke Savage writes in Jacobin, for every mealymouthed Josh Hawley mouthing talking points that "support workers" by blaming China and Joe Biden for the Big Three's greed, there's a Tim Scott, saying the quiet part aloud:

https://jacobin.com/2023/09/republicans-uaw-strike-hawley-trump-scott/

Quoth Senator Scott: "I think Ronald Reagan gave us a great example when federal employees decided they were going to strike. He said, you strike, you’re fired. Simple concept to me. To the extent that we can use that once again, absolutely":

https://twitter.com/American_Bridge/status/1704136706574741988

The GOP's workerism is a tissue-thin fake. They can never and will never support real worker power. That creates an opportunity for Biden and Democrats to seize:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/09/18/co-determination/#now-make-me-do-it

Reversing two generations of anti-worker politics is a marathon, not a sprint. The strikes are going to run for months, even years. Every worker will be called upon to support their striking siblings, every day. We can do it. Solidarity now. Solidarity forever.

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/09/21/eight-and-skate/#strike-to-rule

[granolawriting]

A proper fall◞♡

pairing: no breakout!Joel x fem reader

Summary: A slow night ignites when Joel brings a suprise of pumpkins spotted on his way home from work to your doorstep. what starts as a nice activity with you and him lit by the illumination of the TV and of small tea candles, delves into something a bit more about you, and less about pumpkins.

Content warning: 18+ NSFW, age gap (25yrs), he has grey hair so hes about that old, he also has long hair because I say so, breif praise kink, strong Joel picks you up, pet names (darling, sweetheart), crazy tension, the reader is a bit of a stalker, Joel teaches you how to cut a pumpkin (visual learner ;))

word count: 2.8k

general masterlist . kink*tober masterlist

A/N: welcome to the first day of kink*tober! Hope this is a good way to start it off, and enjoy ;)

Night falls upon an evening of autumn that crept up upon you as though there was no summer in between them. As the beginning of October rears its head, and you watch the symptoms of the cold brush against the warm tones of trees once vibrant and green, their remnants finding final resting place within the sidewalks at which you walk and the streets you drive. Fall reminded you of times since past, of family and festivities, childlike whimsy watching as though the monsters on TV were specially curated for your greatest fright. There's something nostalgic about this time of year, however with old love comes a desire to thrust it into the new by sharing it with those you love and care for. A yearning you've held as you’ve grown older as most definitely as you lived alone. 

The familiar tune of Joel's tires drives up onto the gravel to the house adjacent from yours. Joel, your neighbor, your sometimes liquor handler, and the incessant object of your unrequited affection. He was an older man in contrast to you, aged about 25 years your senior he was a reliable man for about anything an old man could provide. From home repairs to car leaks he's about the only person in this freshly moved into town that feels as though he is genuine with you. And as you hear the parking of tires scratch against the small stones, it cues to you a glimpse at him was within your reach. Every moment you could you were compelled to steal glances at him, with a window facing the front end of his home you were able to gaze upon him twice a day if you were lucky. Once when he went to work and once when he went home. Though some nights you find him sat on a chair outside on his property, a face illuminated by a light attached to his porch a sweet sound of hums and plucking of strings filled your senses as a dimly lit guitar played a melody unfamiliar to you by origin but soaked in with every ounce of love by the way he rendered it with his own hands. 

Your eyes trace his movements as he hops out of his truck, a routine motion of heavy steps does he do something uncharacteristic-- reaching to the back of his truck. Usually there was nothing left of the cargo stored in his truck for work by day's end, and anything he bought often was small enough to fit in his passenger. By a sick twist of stalking tendencies you found yourself undeniably intrigued in this minute break in routine. But as he reveals what is shadowed by the walls of the truck's rear it has you make a double take. Pumpkins? 

Two pumpkins, one thrusted under each crook of his arm to carry with the strength of his bicep and the careful placement of fingers to keep it in place. And as he walks that gravel road you see him not turn around to meet his own front door, but as his boots hit the sidewalk it dawns on you that he is going to your own door. 

You panic, going into a very forced casual relaxation as you await his knock, only mere seconds to play the act of surprise as though you had not watched him from the moment his car arrived in his lot. 

Knock knock. 

Fuck. fuck uh, shit uh fuck well how long does it take for someone to casually get up to get the door how many steps uh 

You sprint to your couch and start tracing steps to the door with perfectly calculated casualty to them, no anticipation to be perceived in the gracefulness of tense legs and unnatural motion wading one step closer to the door. 

Knock knock knock 

Oh shit. That was with his boot maybe? Fuck I took too long what if they drop and break and 

Abandoning all previous methods of casualty you find yourself lunging for the door. 

“Took ya’ long enough.” 

God. His smile was teasing, a little cock in his hip to hold up a slipping pumpkin that gave him an air of tease that when complimented by a southern drawl and a long days of work, made your knees grow weak at the sight of him. 

“Ya’ just gonna stand there or can I put these things somewhere ‘fore they break on us?” 

You snap out of your gaze to usher him in; 

“Oh, oh of course I'm so sorry you can put them on the kitchen counter.” 

And as he passes you, the musk of coffee, tobacco, and sawdust wafts past you in a scent coated by recently applied cologne that makes your eyes follow him as his back faces you and he travels deeper within your home. You swiftly close the door behind him and follow, watching the way he walked, the sway of his body ever so slightly, the sound of his boots against your wooden floors, the broadness of his back accentuated by the posture he found himself in. he was so much larger than you he almost dwarfed you in comparison. And as you remember the way he looked moments before, with rolled up sleeves that showed flexed forearms before you, you thought that he was absolutely perfect. 

“What are these even doing here Joel?” 

You ask in a playful tone as you trail behind him, hoping that whatever he had in mind involved him staying there. 

He stands with a hip cocked on the side of your counter as the two pumpkins sit there, arms crossed watching as you speak. The dim light of the lower setting of your home lighting casts a soft shadow on his tanned face, to complement the fall of gray and black hair right above his eyes. 

“Well, saw em’ for sale on my way home ‘n thought you’d like one. It's that, buy one get one, thought you’d wanna cut em’ up fer your fancy little decorations.” 

By “fancy little decorations” he means a welcome mat from michaels, that adorned a little skull over the ‘O’. 

Joel begins to make his way towards the door he’d just come out of, passing you makes your heart sink. 

“Well, I best be gettin’ out of ya hair, hope you like em’.” 

But as his kind smile meets your eyes and a slightly frowned mouth, impulse overtakes you to grab onto a bicep clothed in dark plaid that makes him stop in his tracks. 

“No, uh. How about you help me out? We can cut one up each. If, you don't have anything going on. It's fine if you do. I was just watching a movie.” 

It comes flowing out of you without thinking, but you couldn't let yourself forsake this kind of opportunity just by staying quiet. 

He turns his head to look at you, eyes lingering on the hand holding his arm for a moment. 

“Oh- I'm sorry.” 

You lower your hand. 

His eyes shift to your own, and a shock of electricity runs through you that stuns you-- as his eyes meet yours there's something different about them. His eyelids hood his dark brown eyes with a bit more intensity than you’re used to, a smile creeps on his lips that has the playfulness you are used to, but with a tinge of something inexplicable within the formation of it. He turns to face you, shadowing you as his broad frame overpowers yours, he looks down upon you as he speaks. 

“No worries darlin’, and I ain’t got nothing to do anyways, I don't mind helpin’ out with some carving. Cant promise i'm any good at it though, aint done it since my girl was young.” 

A spark of joy lights up your face, creating a stretch of lips into a smile that reaches cheek to cheek in positive response to your leap of faith. Eyes darting around to combat his unwavering gaze upon you that if any more attention were to be paid to his gesture you would be unable to have enough self control to pull yourself away from his trance.

 He is so effortlessly enchanting.

“Oh! Oh that's okay. I don't quite know how to do it either. I’ll get us some knives, and some markers for the outline of the face. Just- give me a second.” 

Scrambling around to the drawer of your kitchen that houses all miscellaneous amenities from lighters to thumbtacks, you fish around for a black sharpie and some leftover tealights from an old project you did for decor. You feel Joel's eyes follow your movement as he situated himself on the chair just opposite of the counter to you where there was a small slab of marble sticking out for any who wish to use that as means for dining instead of a proper table. And for you in this moment it meant close proximity with a certain Joel Miller who was a picturesque of your very dream, who you’d found a friend within. your back turns to him to find the silverware that bear sharp enough blade to cut through ripe pumpkin, you know his eyes have yet to leave you. 

The only noise to fill the room within brief moments of shuffling and the clanging of metal against metal is the low hum of your speakers that plays a rerun of old halloween movies along its channel. It's something you allowed to run within your house whether you were watching it or not, it just provides a means for a more seasonal white noise to your everyday. 

“Okay, i’ve got everything!” 

You turn to him with cheery demeanor as your findings are sprawled out neatly upon the counter for his proper check. And with a kind thumbs up and a smile he lifts himself up from the chair to meet your right as he readied his own pumpkin for its demise. 

Sharply does his knife sink its way into the pumpkins top, sawing at its close stem with furrowed brow and concentrated intent with every flex of his hands on the blade's handle. You watch him for a moment as his hair falls in front of his face ever so slightly, burning urge wells up inside of you to bring it out of his face, but you fear to test your luck. Instead you resort to cutting open your own, but with much less elegance as he does. The jagged cuts of the blade against raw vegetable leave its circle around the top growing to be a much more unrecognizable shape, as the cuts of your blade are often redirected every half of the slice. As Joel finishes up his own work, he checks on your progress to find disarray. 

“Oh darlin’ now, now let me help you. What the hell are ya even doing?” 

Curious tone coats a laugh that escapes him as he moves himself closer to you, smoothly moving himself behind you to cup your body with his own, his hand finds yours as the fingers gripping the blade weaken at the feeling of calloused fingertips grazing over the notches of your fingers. You feel his warmth behind you, he's left only a sliver of room between his body and your own, though the intensity felt between yours and his bodies felt as though there was nothing between them at all. And the part of his body that did touch you felt like every nerve you had in your body was directed to that place. The cocked elbow of your right hand is completely engulfed by the muscled emulation of the man behind you. Feeling his bicep strain to fall in the same position you did, as means to merely grip onto your hand. You turn your face to the right of you to look at him once more, only to be greeted with his own to be mere inches away from your own as he leaned over your shoulder. His eyes catch yours, you watch as they flicker up and down your face with a semblance of shock that was a foreign look upon his stern and confident usual demeanor. 

A moment passes as you two take each other in, a moment too long. But soon after he lets out a breathy laugh, the feeling of his breath coated your face, lingering on your lips as he awkwardly smiled. He turns his face back to the pumpkin you had been meaning to cut.

“Now, you’re not properly doin it with the right motion. You’ve gotta dig deep, ya see?” 

He guides your hand out of the jagged lines of the interior, and moves your blade to an untouched part of its top. You feel the grip of his hand engulf yours, and he steadies his forearm on your own to push down the first cut within it. And slowly with a heavy-gripped explanation, he shows you slice for slice how to properly do it. 

“I’ll let ya try the last cut. See if ya learned anythin’ or if i’d just done it for ya.” 

His body lets up from yours with a moment's hesitation, a feeling of coldness wafts over exposed skin that sinks deep within your core-- your body yearned for his even greater now that it had just a taste of what it felt like to be near him. To be overwhelmed with his scent, to hear the low hum of his voice directly within your ear. 

You cut the final piece with decent enough elegance for celebration. Throwing hands up in the air after dropping the knife you find a melodramatic expression of victory only fitting to cut the air of tension that surrounded you two. But as your bout of over exaggerated victory overtook your senses, you latch arms around his high shoulders in expression of said joy. But as the light above you illuminates his face, he seems taken aback. His eyes look needy, lit up by the white light of your kitchen's main light source. You kept hands wrapped around his neck for a moment longer as you took in the look upon his face. It looked longingly, lips slightly parted and pink, your eyes both meet and you feel your world go silent. 

“Ah, my bad i'm getting ahead of myself-”

You lower yourself off his neck but you feel rough hands keep you in by the waist. your top having ridden up your stomach to reach his neck you felt as his fingers gripped onto bare skin once cold now feeling like a thousand suns piercing every nerve in your body. You felt weak at the knees. 

“No worries sweetheart.” 

His voice grew darker. And he looks at you with a smile laced with something you’ve never seen on him before, pure desire. 

“Mind if i'm real with ya for a moment?” 

He waits for a response, and a nod from you suffices. 

“Now, I won’t let ya play dumb anymore. You don't think I see ya watchin me? Feel your eyes on me when I'm comin’ home? Even when I'm here fixin things for ya, you can't take yer eyes off me darlin’. And I've got to say I'm flattered, ain't every day a pretty girl like you takes interest in a old man like me. But i've got to say i'm bout’ tired pretending, what do you say mm?” 

The taunting hum at the end of his words vibrates against you as though a simple gust of wind against your face could set your whole body aflame. You’re at a loss for words, feeling your body engulfed in heat as it sets in what he’s just said. The feeling of the words vibrates throughout your whole body, feeling yourself soak at even the implication of his lips upon yours. You look at his eyes hooded by desire, feeling his thumb trace your lower back barely above the waistband of your shorts as he begins to toy with you ever so slightly. 

“I need a yes or no darlin’.” 

“Y..yes. Please Joel” 

“Good girl.” 

His lips slam against yours at the simplest of begging, the need for you superseding any sort of joy he got from watching you beg for him. He craved you, for much longer than you could have ever accounted for. You could tell by the touch of your lips, the desperation of its tongue as it tasted every bit of your mouth as though it had been starved. A hand traces your body in such intent it's as if he had already mapped out every crevasse and indentation of your body and only now is able to touch what it's yearned for for so long. Tangled fingers push his hair back from his face as you switch between holding his jaw and gripping at his hair, his own fingers snaking their way down to your thighs, lifting you up onto the empty counter space within your kitchen and your hands fell to the back of cold marble that contrasted with your heated skin. And as Joel continued to worship your body with his lips, you could still hear the muted screams of a horror film playing as your own began to meld with it.

[perhaps-in-anotherdream]

[CN] Victor’s 2023 Qixi Event Offline Call + In-game Call + Mail

⌚ No spoiler warning since global server doesn’t get these anyways ⌚

[Translation under the cut]

•─────⋅◍♡◍⋅─────•

[Anika’s Notes]: Honestly, I’d rather you guys read my twitter thread for this since I added many translation notes I won’t be adding here haha: ♡♡

—

It’s me, Victor. I’ve found Pudding.

Not sure when, but he somehow crawled into the suitcase, and now came out on his own after waking up from his nap.

Hm, it’s the suitcase we were planning to take to the desert.

Yep, thankfully, although he flipped over the contents inside and caused a mess, the gastronomic map and camping equipment a certain someone had placed in there earlier are intact. So your plans for enjoying barbecue and stargazing won’t be compromised.

The red dress you wanted to wear for taking pictures is also in there. And all those jingling accessories that were tangled together— I’ve properly sorted them out for you.

However, there are now more of Pudding’s toys in the suitcase… and he’s still spinning around the area of the suitcase.

[Pudding meowing adorably ~pitifully~]

He seems to be stating explicitly that he wants to join us for the Qixi Festival.

Whether to bring him along with us or not, let’s decide when you come back.

—

【In-game Call】

Victor: Have you left the house yet?

MC: Of course, and I’m already in the car. How about you? Have you wrapped up the meeting?

Victor: Yep, but I also found a certain someone’s new masterpiece on my office desk, and I’m still finding it a challenge to figure out what the original inspiration is.

MC: …you really can’t tell? It’s obviously a cup!

Victor: Sure enough, your self-confidence is not to be underestimated.

Victor: It resembles a vase, it resembles a spray bottle–– but it just doesn’t look like a cup.

MC: Even if it doesn’t look like a cup, the pattern drawn on the surface should still be identifiable, no?

Victor: Your artistic style has always been abstract, and the tree branch next to the chestnut is somewhat satisfactory.

MC: …the paintings on the cup are clearly several skillfully rendered fruits nestled within the grass. It’s quite easily distinguishable.

Victor: Mhm, the blackish blob is indeed “easily distinguishable.”

Victor: Speaking of which, a certain someone mentioned wanting to try out a pottery workshop last month. It turns out she was already preparing this gift back then.

MC: Hehe, the most important value of a gift lies in the sentiments behind it. I’m sure CEO Victor shares the same feelings, doesn’t he?

MC: So, will my gift be a sumptuous feast, or some sort of handmade craft like the one I gave you?

Victor: Isn’t a certain someone usually filled with all sorts of whimsical ideas?

Victor: How come you’re being so restrained during a crucial matter like this?

MC: …! Seeing how you are boasting like this, aren’t you afraid of potentially not living up to my expectations when the time comes?

Victor: I understand the thoughts of a certain dummy better than anyone.

Victor: Even if your expectations are sky-high, I’m confident I can have you giggling all night long while hugging your gift.

MC: Humph, if you can’t achieve this result, then will CEO Victor step in for the gift and let me hug him all night long instead?

Victor: You sure know how to make demands.

Victor: Nonetheless, all of this is contingent on you not being late. Otherwise, it’ll be like fetching water with a bamboo basket – all in vain.

—

[Tidbits]: the word cup (杯子) actually has the similar pronunciation to 辈子 (meaning one’s entire life). So, it’s considered a romantic gift among couples to express their emotions of being together for a lifetime~

【Mail】

“Using handmade offerings to pray for ‘predestined love and marriage’ is somewhat elusive. The wish to never be separated— just expressing it to me like this is enough.”

—

[ratrodstudios]

Snowfall Reverie: A Vintage Christmas.........................

"Snowfall Reverie: A Vintage Christmas" transports viewers to a serene winter scene where nostalgia and holiday cheer converge. In the heart of a softly falling snow, a group of women stands captivated by a gleaming 1932 Ford, adorned with a festive touch for the Christmas season. The vintage car, its lines accentuated by a fresh blanket of snow, becomes a focal point that bridges the past and present.

The 1932 Ford, meticulously rendered with period details, exudes timeless elegance against the winter landscape. The surrounding snow-covered trees and quaint buildings contribute to a picturesque backdrop, creating a harmonious blend of vintage charm and winter magic.

The women, dressed in stylish winter attire, express a sense of camaraderie and shared admiration for the classic automobile. Their breath creates gentle puffs of mist in the crisp winter air as they share stories and laughter, united by the enchanting beauty of the moment. "Snowfall Reverie: A Vintage Christmas" invites viewers to step into a scene where the warmth of friendship, the allure of a timeless automobile, and the quiet grace of a snowy Christmas converge in a celebration of joy and tradition.

Greeting Cards And Artwork By Bob Kramer https://artist.greetingcarduniverse.com/bobkramer

Art By Bob Kramer https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/3-bob-kramer

Art By Bob Kramer https://www.zazzle.com/artbybobkramer

Art By Bob Kramer https://www.redbubble.com/people/BobKramer1/shop?asc=u

Rat Rod Studios https://www.cafepress.com/ratrodstudios/17350621

[alfredstvthoughts]

Z Cars - House to House (16 December 1974)

House to House, the latest episode of Z Cars shown on Talking Pictures TV begins with teacher Hazel Jay (Darlene Johnson) entering her flat in a grim tower block, closing the door behind her and suddenly screaming. It turns out she had been assaulted upon entering the flat, and DS Haggar (John Collin) leads the investigation to find her attacker, directing the police under his command to conduct house to house enquiries to see if any of the neighbors heard anything.

As the constables interview the locals, Haggar himself talks with the recovering Hazel in hospital, hoping she can describe her attacker which will then give the police a better idea of who to look for, but with Hazel having previously had an affair with another teacher, Haggar soon feels she might be hiding something...

The episode starts well and there's also a festive theme running through the episode (although only in a minor way with some Christmas decorations visible and DC Skinner (Ian Cullen) complaining that the house to house enquiries are ruining his plans for Christmas shopping). Some of the initial house to house enquiries are interesting as the police get an idea of what's going on and there's a large cast in this episode of varied local characters. Also with his increasing presence in the show, I'm enjoying seeing more of PC Render (Allan O'Keefe) too.

However, in an opposite problem to that faced by some of the other Z Cars episodes I've seen as part of the TPTV reruns which start slow but get more interesting later, this episode then runs out of steam before the end, the revelations about just what is going on with Hazel and who the suspected attacker could be just aren't interesting enough.

Overall an average episode that starts promising but ultimately peters out, this definitely isn't a patch on writers Bob Baker and Dave Martin's excellent previous effort Quiet as the Grave but has it's moments.

[newstfionline]

Saturday, November 30, 2024

In Traffic-Weary Toronto, a Battle Breaks Out Over Bike Lanes (Bloomberg) At the evening rush hour in downtown Toronto last week, Victor Perelman stopped his bicycle at the intersection of Yonge and Bloor streets and explained his mission: He was going to ride the full length of all the bike lanes that Ontario Premier Doug Ford had just promised to rip up. “I see young people, old people, people with trailers behind their bikes, people with their children on kids’ bikes,” Perelman said of his fellow cyclists, “and this government just wants to push them all out into the road for their political expedience.” Since 2020, Toronto has unveiled dozens of kilometers of protected bike lanes, spanning from east to west to the downtown core. But the Ontario government, currently led by Ford’s Progressive Conservative majority, has pledged to remove some of them, arguing that bikeways are causing “standstill” congestion in Canada’s largest city because they can sacrifice a potential driving lane. The bill’s announcement has helped reignite a culture war that has long raged between urban Toronto and its sprawling suburbs. On one side: drivers who are increasingly frustrated with the city’s traffic delays, which the navigation tech company TomTom has ranked the worst in North America. The other side comprises city residents and transportation advocates who say that making more investments in non-car modes like transit and cycling is the only way out of the city’s congestion trap.

This 22-Foot Turkey Roosts in a Region of Roadside Giants (NYT) The most celebrated resident of Frazee, Minn., is 22 feet tall and is known to his friends simply as Big Tom. He lives alone just off Highway 10, past the metal barns but before the railroad tracks, where admirers show up seeking photos at all hours of the day. Big Tom is a turkey—the world’s largest, locals will tell you—and his fiberglass feathers are more than just a conversation starter. He pays homage to the region’s poultry industry, a cornerstone of the rural Minnesota economy, and to the annual Turkey Days festival in Frazee, a town of 1,300 people about 200 miles northwest of Minneapolis. While no sculpture is quite like Big Tom, it does not take long while wandering the Midwestern countryside to see more supersize statuary. Minnesota alone is home to a giant loon in Vergas, a giant otter in Fergus Falls, a giant prairie chicken in Rothsay, a giant sugar beet in Halstad, a giant crow in Belgrade, a giant pelican in, of course, Pelican Rapids, and giant Paul Bunyans in Akeley, Bemidji and Brainerd. For small places that will never have the tallest building or grandest stadium, having one of the world’s largest of something—truly, anything—can be a way to forge an identity, pull in visitors and, perhaps most of all, share a laugh.

Stripped of citizenship, these Nicaraguans live in limbo scattered across the world (AP) Sergio Mena’s life dissolved in hours. After years resisting President Daniel Ortega, the rural activist fled Nicaragua in 2018, joining thousands of protesters fleeing a yearslong crackdown on dissent. Mena returned from exile in neighboring Costa Rica in 2021 to continue protesting, only to be thrown in a prison where he said jailers hung prisoners by their feet and shocked them with electricity. Now in exile in Guatemala, Mena may be out of prison but he’s far from free. Upon their release, he and hundreds of religious leaders, students, activists, dissidents and journalists were rendered “stateless”—stripped of their citizenship, homes and government pensions. The United Nations says that they’re among 4.4 million stateless people worldwide who struggle to find jobs, education and healthcare or even open bank accounts or marry without valid ID documents.

After Emotional Debate, British Lawmakers Vote to Legalize Assisted Dying (NYT) Lawmakers in Britain voted on Friday to allow assisted dying for terminally ill patients in England and Wales under strict conditions, opening the way to one of the most profound social changes in the country in decades. After five hours of debate in the House of Commons, they voted by 330 to 275 to support a plan that would allow doctors to help patients with less than six months to live to end their lives. The vote was not the final word on the legislation: It will now be scrutinized in parliamentary committees and amendments to the bill may be put forward. The bill that lawmakers approved on Friday would apply to a narrow group: Applicants would have to be over 18, diagnosed with a terminal illness and have been given six months or less to live. Two doctors and a judge would be required to approve a patient’s choice to end their life, and fatal drugs would have to be self-administered.

Russia Launches Huge Bombardment of Ukraine and Signals More to Come (NYT) Russia attacked Ukrainian energy infrastructure with missiles and drones on Thursday, in what President Vladimir V. Putin said was retaliation for Kyiv’s hitting Russian territory with long-range American missiles. Mr. Putin suggested that such strikes could be stepped up, after millions of Ukrainians were left without power on Thursday, Ukrainian officials said. Ukraine’s energy ministry said it was the 11th major attack on the country’s energy infrastructure this year. The total extent of the damage was not immediately clear, but explosions were heard in cities across Ukraine, and many officials reported power outages. Six people were reported injured across the country, according to the regional authorities.

Desertion threatens to starve Ukraine’s forces at a crucial time (AP) Desertion is starving the Ukrainian army of desperately needed manpower and crippling its battle plans at a crucial time in its war with Russia, which could put Kyiv at a clear disadvantage in future ceasefire talks. Facing every imaginable shortage, tens of thousands of Ukrainian troops, tired and bereft, have walked away from combat and front-line positions to slide into anonymity, according to soldiers, lawyers and Ukrainian officials. Entire units have abandoned their posts, leaving defensive lines vulnerable and accelerating territorial losses, according to military commanders and soldiers. Some take medical leave and never return, haunted by the traumas of war and demoralized by bleak prospects for victory. Others clash with commanders and refuse to carry out orders, sometimes in the middle of firefights. Although Moscow has also been dealing with desertions, Ukrainians going AWOL have laid bare deeply rooted problems bedeviling their military and how Kyiv is managing the war, from the flawed mobilization drive to the overstretching and hollowing out of front-line units. It comes as the U.S. urges Ukraine to draft more troops and allow for the conscription of those as young as 18.

China Is the World’s Largest Car Exporter (NYT) Just two decades ago, China had little capacity to make cars, and owning one was considered novel. Today, China produces and exports more cars than any other country in the world. President-elect Donald J. Trump has promised to impose new tariffs on China. Many countries, including the United States, already levy extra tariffs on China’s electric vehicles. But with all of the advantages China wields in automaking, this pushback is unlikely to undercut China’s dominance. China’s home market for car sales is the world’s largest—almost as big as the American and European markets combined. China is a leader in the transition to electric vehicles and it exports more of them than any other country. Chinese brands like BYD are becoming known worldwide for offering advanced electric cars at the most competitive prices. And as Chinese drivers have shifted rapidly to electric vehicles, demand for gasoline-powered cars in China has plunged and many are being exported instead.

3 dead, over 80,000 displaced as Malaysia prepares for worst floods in a decade (AP) Malaysia prepared on Friday for its worst floods in a decade after heavier-than-expected monsoon rains caused severe flooding that killed three people and displaced more than 80,000. The National Disaster Command Center online portal said Friday that 84,597 people, from more than 25,000 families, across seven states were evacuated to 488 temporary shelters. The northeastern state of Kelantan, bordering Thailand, was the worst affected.

Philippines’ Marcos says debate over impeachment of VP Sara Duterte a ‘storm in a teacup’ (Reuters) Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said on Friday that any impeachment complaint against his estranged vice president Sara Duterte would only distract Congress and not help people, in remarks that drew criticism from some lawmakers. Sara Duterte, who made threats against the president’s life on the weekend, is under legislative investigation for alleged misuse of public funds. She quit her cabinet post as education secretary in June and has denied wrongdoing. “Why waste time on it?” Marcos told reporters. “None of this will help improve a single Filipino life. As far as I’m concerned, it’s a storm in a teacup.”

Australia Has Barred Everyone Under 16 From Social Media. Will It Work? (NYT) Australia has imposed a sweeping ban on social media for children under 16, one of the world’s most comprehensive measures aimed at safeguarding young people from potential hazards online. But many details were still unclear, such as how it will be enforced and what platforms will be covered. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said that it puts the onus on social media platforms to take “reasonable steps” to prevent anyone under 16 from having an account. Corporations could be fined up to 49.5 million Australian dollars (about $32 million) for “systemic” failures to implement age requirements. Neither underage users nor their parents will face punishment for violations. And whether children find ways to get past the restrictions is beside the point, Mr. Albanese said. “We know some kids will find workarounds, but we’re sending a message to social media companies to clean up their act,” he said in a statement this month.

In a shock offensive, insurgents breach Syria’s largest city for the first time since 2016 (AP) Insurgents breached Syria’s largest city Friday and clashed with government forces for the first time since 2016, according to a war monitor and fighters, in a surprise attack that sent residents fleeing and added fresh uncertainty to a region reeling from multiple wars. The advance on Aleppo followed a shock offensive launched by insurgents Wednesday, as thousands of fighters swept through villages and towns in Syria’s northwestern countryside. Residents fled neighborhoods on the city’s edge because of missiles and gunfire, according to witnesses in Aleppo. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors the country’s unresolved civil war, said dozens of fighters from both sides were killed. Reports emerged of government forces melting away in the face of rebel advances, and insurgents posted messages on social media calling on troops to surrender.

Battered by war and divisions, Lebanon faces a long list of challenges after ceasefire deal (AP) Hours after a U.S.-brokered ceasefire to end the war between Israel and Hezbollah went into effect, Lebanon woke up to the sound of celebratory gunfire instead of Israeli airstrikes and drones buzzing overhead. It was a rare moment of respite for Lebanon, as bombs stopped falling after a year of war. Thousands of displaced people joyfully drove back to their towns and villages in southern and eastern Lebanon. But the realization of what lies ahead quickly sank in. Town after town in the south and east as well as parts of Beirut have been destroyed, entire border villages leveled to the ground, and thousands of buildings damaged. The World Bank estimates losses amounting to some $8.5 billion. For the tiny and broken Mediterranean country, which has dealt with compounded calamities for over half a decade, the ceasefire deal has brought more questions than answers. Among them, who will foot the bill for rebuilding? Will Hezbollah fully remove its fighters and arsenals from the south, relocating north of the Litani River—and how will the Lebanese army ensure that it does so? And will Israel ultimately accept the militants being pushed back, battered but not destroyed?

[superheroclock]

Episode 2 Part 2 Screenshots! Thoughts About Pokemon GO And Making A Video About It

-Posted on the original website on: September 10, 2016

August was the Olympics. September is the Mid-Autumn Festival. Which means.... MOONCAKES!!!

But anyway, I expected that I could finish part 2 in August (in a month) but I spent time watching the Olympics and at the end of August, I ran into a problem with the background. It's all fixed now and below are some screenshots! There are still a few more backgrounds to work on and after that I'll proceed with shading and stuff.

Since July this year, there has been a crazy fad about Pokemon GO. I heard that people all over the world, young or old, are playing it all around the clock, almost every single day. Ever since then, Youtube has been loaded with tons and tons of gameplay/let's play/fanimation etc... videos about Pokemon GO. Because of that some people, and even my brother, suggested that I did a Pokemon GO video for my Youtube channel. Well, to me Pokemon is great, especially the 1st and 2nd generation. I remember being a huge Pokefan back in the years between 1999-2001 where I played Pokemon Gold/Silver and Pokemon Pinball on the Gameboy Color emulator. Over the years after that, Pokemon got less and less popular. And then fast forward until this year, there is Pokemon GO. Although I consider myself an adult and Pokemon games are meant for kids, my brother and I thought we would wanna try it out a bit when we were free - since we were both Pokemon fans. My first impression was the game looked really beautiful. Each pokemon was rendered in 3D which made every single one of them come to life and I bet that was every pokefan's wish. However, the gameplay was a lot different from other Pokemon games. Unlike the original RPGs which have its own map, Pokemon GO uses real-life locations as its map, and you move your character in the game around the map to catch Pokemon by moving yourself in real life.

Everyone's thought of it at first would definitely be like "Wow cool.." but to me, I think it is smart of Niantic but completely foolish of players/users from a practical point of view. People are willing to drive a car to a far location at 3am in the morning, or stay under the rain waiting at a spot just to what? Catch a Charmander? Or maybe to level up/power up pokemon to beat a Gym. But after you beat a Gym or have caught your pokemon then... what? If it's for nothing but that then all that time and effort it just for... that?

Well I'm not trying to be utterly negative about Pokemon GO but it's just not a practical thing in life (and probably not fun to play after you can't seem to catch your favorite rare pokemon or reach level 20 when leveling up seems almost impossible). If you are someone who has ample free time, don't really have a home and don't need to sleep, then it could be practical for you. But for normal average people it could be a detriment to life. I've heard people quitting their jobs just to play, people trespassing just to catch a type of pokemon, people playing and driving (very common) and deaths due to playing this game.

Personally, I don't feel like playing that game anymore. My brother and I have caught a bunch of pokemon but have gotten frustrated and are fed up over the process of playing it. I could go on talking about Pokemon GO because I've realized so much about this game but this is a Super Hero Clock blog. The idea of making a Pokemon GO-related video is a good one because it's a fad but part of me is still reluctant to do that. SHC Episode 2 part 2 is coming out really well and I want to finish it and move on to the next part. Maybe I'll just stall the Pokemon GO video while I work on SHC.

Feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments below!

[mylavenu99]

Jagannath Temple Hyderabad: How to reach, Location, History & significance

 Hyderabad lies a haven of serenity – the  Jagannath Temple. This magnificent structure, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, the embodiment of the universe, is a cultural and spiritual landmark for devotees across India.Lord Shree Jagannath Temple is a magnificent creation of Kalinga Cultural Trust to provide a sacred place for worship and to arouse divine thoughts in mind and hearts of people. This temple strictly adheres to the principles of sanctity, equity, discipline and cleanliness. The temple is an architectural delight and is a destination to experience peace and tranquility. The temple premise vibrates with the energy of the divine and renders an unique and unforgettable feeling. Enter the precincts of the Majestic Lord  Jagannath Temple  hyderabad at Road No.12, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad and you will like to visit again and again being drawn closer to the God.

A Historical Journey:

The story of the Jagannath Temple begins in 1992 when a group of Odia devotees in Hyderabad envisioned a place to celebrate their rich heritage. After years of dedication and perseverance, the temple was finally consecrated in 2009. Inspired by the iconic Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, its architectural style reflects a blend of tradition and modernity. Constructed with red sandstone, the temple boasts a towering Shikhara (spire) that reaches 70 feet, a testament to the skilled craftsmanship involved.

A Celebration of Faith:

The  Jagannath Temple is a vibrant center of devotion. Devotees are drawn to the daily pujas (worship rituals) and festivals like Ratha Yatra (Chariot Festival). This annual spectacle, which sees the deities being paraded through the streets on ornately decorated chariots, is a sight to behold. Thousands of devotees participate in this joyous celebration, chanting hymns and seeking blessings.

Why Pray to Lord Jagannath

The Lord who listens and responds to prayers. His kripa and concern are unfathomable.

Lord who rescued the king elephant from the crocodile, saving him by killing the crocodile with the Sudarshan chakra when prayed to be rescued.

He responded to Draupadi’s distressed cries from the Kuru sabha/darbar, protecting her dignity and saving her from shame.

And also He gave shelter to Vibhishana, Ravana’s brother, and bestowed upon him the throne.

Jagannath is Jagat (the Universe) and Nath (the Lord). That is, Jagannath is the Lord of the Universe, does not belong to any caste, creed, sect, religion, or race. He is beyond space and time and not the Lord of Hindus only but the Lord of Suffering Humanity. He is the remover of sins and the giver of Mukti. and also the purifier of the fallen.

Jagannath temple Hyderabad timings:

Day

Timing

Monday

6:00 am – 11:00 am 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Tuesday

6:00 am – 11:00 am 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Wedesday

6:00 am – 11:00 am 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Thursday

6:00 am – 11:00 am 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Friday

6:00 am – 11:00 am 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Saturday

6:00 am – 11:00 am 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Sunday

6:00 am – 11:00 am 5:00 pm – 10:00 pm

How to reach the Temple:

 Jagannath Temple  Hyderabad Location:

The temple is situated on Road No. 12, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. It’s close to KBR Park and opposite the Telangana Bhavan.

Reaching the Temple:

By Car:

If you’re using a navigation app, simply enter “Jagannath Temple, Hyderabad” as your destination.

There’s a reasonable amount of free parking available on the temple’s northern and eastern sides.

By Public Transport:

Bus: Several buses ply routes near the temple. You can take buses

Auto-rickshaw or Taxi: These are readily available throughout Hyderabad. You can simply hail one and mention “Jagannath Temple, Banjara Hills” as your destination.

Significant Structure:

SIMHA DWARA:

(Lions Gate or eastern gate) – It is one of the four entrances to the temple and is considered the main entry. It is named so that on either side there are two colossal statues of couching lions with crowns on their head. The gate faces east and therefore is also known as Purva Dwara or the eastern gate. The gate is intricately designed and carved and is of artistic finery and beauty. During Ratha Jatra, the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Maa Subhadra are taken out to the chariot through this gate. The statue of Lord Mahalaxmi is at the top of the door. The door symbolizes the principle of Dharma and also the majesty of strength through the lion.

VYAGHRA DWARA: The Western door (Tiger gate) is guarded by two statues of tigers and is also known as Paschima dwara or Vyaghra dwara. It symbolizes Moksha and Vairagya (Renunciation) and energy by different schools of believers.

HATHI DWARA: The northern door, the Hathi Dwara or Uttara Dwara, is also symbolically indicated in this temple in view of the constraint of access to the temple from the northern side. This gate represents artha or prosperity different believers.

ASWA DWARA:

The southern gate is guarded by two statues of horses. This Aswa dwara symbolically represents Kama or Gyana (Knowledge) or military powers.

Navagraha statues are placed on all the gates in addition to small images of Shiva, Vishnu, Hanuman, Durga, and Narasimha.

 ARUNA STAMBHA: The pillar is named after Aruna, the charioteer of the Sun God. In Puri, it is a sixteen-sided pillar (Height 25′ 2”, circumference 6′ 3.5″) with Aruna in prayer mode. An elegant and master piece of art, it is placed before the temple as the Sun God is considered identical with Vishnu from Vedic times. An  Aruna stamba cladded with carved and designed brass plates adorns the Jagannath Temple at Hyderabad. Artistic and imposing, it stands tall at 20 feet.

BAISI PAHACHA

(Twenty-two steps): After entering the temple premises from the eastern gate, one needs to climb 22 steps to proceed towards the sanctum sanctorum of Lord Jagannath. In  Puri temple, each of these steps is 70ft in length, 6ft in width, and 6 to 7 inches in height. Here the steps are symbolic and do not conform to this measurement. The steps are given a lot of divine significance and considered auspicious for numerous holy activities. It is believed that during the car festival, several Gods, Goddesses, demigods, heavenly entities, souls of ancestors, Chitragupta, and Yamadootas descend upon these steps to witness the Pahandi of Lord Jagannath during the Ratha Jatra/Car festival.

BASI PANCHA significance

Madan Mohan, the representative idol of Lord Jagannath, offers pindadana on these steps to His ancestors—Nanda and Yashoda, Devaki and Vasudeva, Koushalya and Dasaratha on chaturdashi theethi of the dark fortnight in the month of Margasira. He also offers pindadana to King Indradyumna, who built the temple, and Queen Gundicha since they were childless. The steps are also called steps of self-control as these steps represent 22 kinds of faults and weaknesses in human beings.

Children are made to roll down on the steps to bring them spiritual bliss and happiness. Each of these sacred steps is named differently as: 1) Tidva, 2) Kumundati, 3) Manda, 4) Chalobati, 5) Dayabati, 6) Rajani, 7) Ratika, 8) Raohi, 9) Krodha, 10) Bajrika, 11) Prasavani, 12) Priti, 13) Marjana, 14) Khati, 15) Rakta, 16) Sandhipani, 17) Alapani, 18) Mandanti, 19) Rohini, 20) Gamya, 21) Ugra, 22) Khorini.

Crossing the 22 steps means crossing the 22 shortcomings to see the Lord. The shortcomings (Para Prakriti) are Kama, Sambhoga, Keli, Lova, Sancaya, Kosa or Panjikarana, Abhamaya, Himsa, Ersa, Kisunata, Kapata, Mithya, Hhuna, Ninda, Ajanta, Krodha, Raga, Dvesa, Ahankar, Mada or Parba, Uthkantha, Maithuna.

It is also believed that Baikuntha, the abode of Lord Vishnu, is situated above saptaloka, sapta patala, and asta baikuntha (22 stages); one has to cross them to reach the Lord. Thus, the steps in the temple take the devotees to the sanctum to have his Darshan. The  Hyderabad temple also has 22 steps leading to Garuda Stamba and to the sanctum thereafter, though not of the same specification as that of  Puri Temple.

Must know: Swarnagiri temple

GARUDA STAMBHA:

A cosmic column which joins heaven and earth, Garuda is a vehicle of Lord Vishnu. Garuda is ever ready to serve the Lord with exemplary devotion and extraordinary power. Garuda is constantly watching the Lord on the Ratnavedi. Garuda Deva is installed on the column made out of wood and cladded with intricately woven brass at the entrance of Nata Mandir. The devotees, before proceeding towards the sanctum, touch and go into extraordinary devotion and a state of surrender to the Lord. A mere touch is assuring and arouses a cosmic connection with the devotee. Garuda Stambha is of the same importance as Nandi in Shiva temple.

NILA CHAKRA:

The Neela chakra or the Blue Wheel adorns the top of the temple. The wheel symbolizes the Sudarshan Chakra, the most powerful disc weapon of Lord Vishnu. The wheel is made out of alloys of eight metals consisting of iron, copper, zinc, mercury, lead, brass, silver, and gold. The Neela chakra in  Puri temple weighs 2200 Kgs and has a height of 11 ft 8 inches with a diameter of 7 ft 6 inches. There are 8 wheel bars in the chakra.

The Neela chakra has eight Navagunjaras carved in the outer circumference all facing towards the flag post above. The Neela chakra in this temple is much similar but small in size and about 2’X3′ in width and height and weighs about 100 Kgs. A flag is flown tied to the mast attached to the Nilachakra. It is a pious and holy act to offer the flags to the temple.

Daily rituals in the Temple (Niti and Dhupas)

Morning (Sakala Dhupa):

Dwarapitha: The day begins with the opening of the temple doors and the sanctum sanctorum.

Mangala Arati: The first lamp offering to awaken the deities.

Mailam: Removal of the previous night’s dress and offerings from the deities.

Abakash: Ritualistic cleaning and bathing of the deities.

Besha Mailam: Dressing the deities in fresh clothes.

Sahan Mela: A brief public viewing of the deities in the sanctum sanctorum.

Besha Ulagi: Changing the deities’ clothes again.

Rosa Homa: Offering of oblations to the fire.

Surya Puja & Dwarapala Puja: Worship rituals dedicated to the Sun God and the guardian deities of the temple doors.

Gopala Ballav Bhoga: Breakfast offering to the deities.

Sakala Dhupa: The main morning food offering, consisting of various vegetarian preparations like black gram (kanti, enduri, etc.), rice, curries, sweets, etc. This offering is performed with 16 “upacharas” (ritualistic steps).

Midday (Madhyana Dhupa):

Similar rituals as the morning, including Mailam, Besha, and offering of a more elaborate midday meal (Madhyana Dhupa) with a wider variety of dishes.

Afternoon (Madhyan Pahuda):

Sandhya Arati: Evening lamp offering to the deities. (This might occur before Madhyan Dhupa if there’s no Madhyan Pahuda)

Madhyan Pahuda: A period of midday rest for the deities. (This might be skipped depending on the temple schedule)

Evening (Sandhya Dhupa):

Similar rituals as the morning, including Mailam, Besha, and offering of an evening meal (Sandhya Dhupa).

Chandana Lagi: Applying sandalwood paste to the deities.

Badasinghara Besa: Dressing the deities in special attire for the night.

Badasinghara Dhupa: A final food offering before the deities retire for the night.

Khatasejulagi and Pahuda: Putting the deities to sleep in their designated chamber for the night.

Types of Prasad:

Mahaprasad: This is the main Prasad offered to Lord Jagannath and then distributed to devotees. It consists of a variety of vegetarian dishes, including:

Rice preparations: Khechudi (sweet rice dish), Kanji (sour rice dish), Pukhala (rice cooked with vegetables) etc.

Dal: Mixed lentils cooked with spices

Sabzi (Vegetable Curries): A variety of seasonal vegetables cooked in different styles

Sweets: Gaja (flattened rice cake with jaggery), Peda (sweet milk balls), Laddu (sweet balls made with flour and sugar) etc.

Sukhilla Prasad: These are dry offerings that devotees can purchase directly from the temple counter. They include:

Khaja: A crispy sweet pastry made with flour and ghee

Gaja: As mentioned above

Laddu: As mentioned above

Distribution of Prasad:

Free Prasad: A limited quantity of Mahaprasad is distributed to devotees free of cost after morning and evening Aaratis (lamp offerings).

Paid Prasad: Devotees can purchase Sukhila Prasad from the temple counter. The cost is nominal.

Puja Name

Description

Approximate Cost (INR)

Abhishekam

A sacred bath for the deities with various auspicious substances like milk, curd, honey, etc.

₹500 – ₹2000

Archana

Offering prayers and chanting mantras specific to a particular deity.

₹100 – ₹500

Laghu Rudrabhishekham (Shiva Puja)

A simplified version of the Rudrabhishekham puja for Lord Shiva.

₹300 – ₹1000

Satyanarayan Puja

A puja dedicated to Lord Vishnu for blessings of peace, prosperity, and well-being.

₹500 – ₹1500

Griha Shanti Puja

A puja performed for peace and harmony in the household.

₹1000 – ₹3000

Vishnu Sahasranama Archana

Chanting of the thousand names of Lord Vishnu.

₹200 – ₹500

Special Pujas (Birthday Pujas, Marriage Anniversary Pujas)

Pujas performed on specific occasions like birthdays or wedding anniversaries.

₹1000 – ₹5000 (depending on the complexity)

Some pujas may require booking in advance, especially during peak seasons or festival

The temple might offer a wider variety of pujas on request. It’s recommended to inquire with the temple administration for a complete list.

[sam-vargas]

Whistler, BC

In the silent and peaceful mountains hidden along the west coast of Canada, resided the small resort town of Whistler. The village, enveloped in the slow downfall of snow and the quiet whispers of cold breezes through the pines, triggered a sense of nostalgia.

Few cars passed through the road between the mountain lodges and the village. White fairy lights wound around tree branches and hung in shop windows. Snow coated the foliage of the trees and the ground in a thin sheet, while small, almost indiscernible flakes of white drifted from the black skies beyond the gray haze of clouds. They made their descent, dancing on the breeze like miniature cotton balls. Snow peaked mountains surrounded the perimeter of the village ascending into and past the low hanging sheet of clouds, their silhouettes shadowed and undefined against a haze of white backdrop. 

As the annually anticipated December holiday drew nearer, strings of green, red, and blue lights wound around the snow caked pine trees and across the metal railings of small bridges, producing festive atmosphere. Electronic snowflakes hung from lampposts, and green lights hung beneath the bridges, the light reflecting off the white snow covering the layer of ice over frozen water. Reminiscent of log cabins in the woods, the accumulating snow and warm lighting from the shops bathed the entire village in an atmosphere of warmth and festivity.The fleeting whispers of winter breezes maneuvered through frost blanketed fir trees, and around the towering silhouettes of encompassing mountains. Snowfall filled the background silence between gusts like white noise. 

Voices pitched high and low, soft and loud mingled with the snowfall, breeze and rustling pine needles. Chatter and laughter followed the crunch of booted feet in the snow as people moved throughout the village. The warm glow of the shop windows cast squares of orange across the walkways and snowy streets and illuminated passerbys. Buildings of dark wood panels influenced the ski resort aesthetic of the village. 

With the snow and higher altitudes came the nose nipping, bone chilling cold. The bite of the air sans windchill warranted a snow jacket, two shirts, two pairs of pants, a pair of sock liners, wool socks, and a pair of snow boots. Even then, the cold rendered those layers useless. 

Some took advantage of the cold. Couples clung to one another, scrambling for warmth when the short, freezing winds passed through. Children burrowed deeper into their puffy snow jackets, stuffing their gloved hands into warm pockets and squinting teary eyes. I clung to my father, the tallest member of my family, and used him as a shield against the winds whenever they blustered. Relief came at the end of the day in the form of free hot chocolate and apple cider upon our return to the lodge.

The unforgiving element to natives of warmer climates became a welcome comfort synonymous with the cold spray of snow and scratch of skis on slopes. Nights spent curled by the fire, palms warmed by the ceramic of a mug, and lungs warmed by the scent of spiced fruit wafting through the steam. Pure, white snow blanketed the mountainside in thick layers, falling from the sky in delicate flurries from sheets of gray clouds. When the oppressive heat and humidity native to the sunshine state become too much, I will fondly remember the clean, crisp allure of Whistler.

[uppervalleya]

Upper Valley Honda

Although Upper Valley Honda is based in Vermont, they cater to a sizable clientele from New Hampshire. Once they arrive at White River Junction, they intend to visit the oppressed in an attempt to mediate a peaceful resolution. Nobody does Honda service like Upper Valley Honda in the Upper Valley region, which includes parts of Vermont and New Hampshire. The parking lot can be accessed from the addresses mentioned previously. When it's convenient for you, please browse our wide network of Honda dealerships. honda dealership near me When you're ready, we're always here to speak with an expert in loans. Our shop can provide any Honda, new or old, with the same-day service it needs. There are numerous reasons why the name Upper Valley Honda is intriguing. Situated close to Vermont's White River Junction, upstairs Valley Honda is a well-liked hangout for contented Honda owners. Visit us now to find out more. Joining our team is an incredible opportunity for you to make an impact.

Honda dealers near me

Never-ending Many advantages come with our Certified Pre-Owned cars, such as a warranty and a thorough 182-point inspection.

Sincerely, I hope that the entire cost of this project does not exceed fifteen thousand dollars.

From our large inventory, find the ideal pre-owned car for less than $15,000. You are welcome to peruse the advertisements at any time while searching for a used vehicle.

It captivated my interest to the extent that I started to question my place in Manchester's social scene.

A few of the many quaint Vermont towns that Upper Valley Honda suggests are Manchester, Montpelier, Concord, and White River Junction. You shouldn't pass up the opportunity to network with other industry experts in a field that is constantly evolving. I'll try my best to settle in after we move into our new home and get to know everyone. Please, just give me a moment. Visit the White River Junction store to appreciate its stunning beauty up close. The festivities have to begin immediately! All we can do for now is cross our fingers and hope you can stop by. I'm thinking of you and praying for you right now. Please do not hesitate to contact us at any time if you need assistance or have any questions about our inventory or the recently revealed Honda vehicles. We offer solutions for every type of business, from Fortune 500 giants to small mom-and-pop shops. Let us handle it while you relax.

Our top priority is making sure our customers are happy.

Because every single one of our customers is important to us, we at Upper Valley Honda work hard to meet their needs. Our top priority is ensuring the satisfaction of both current and previous clients. They are more inclined to suggest it to others as a result. We are very much in favor of this concept. We hope to allay your worries with our three-day return policy and 100,000-mile warranty. Should the items you purchased be of poor quality, we would both be unhappy. We care more about helping you with the paperwork involved in purchasing a car than we do about closing a deal. I could have done all the things I wanted to do to catch your attention.

We are sure that among our large selection of new and used Honda vehicles, you will find the perfect vehicle here at our dealership.

Make sure you research any purchases you make from Upper Valley Honda thoroughly. Anyone in the White River Junction, Vermont area who owns a Honda would adore this vehicle. It should be easy to obtain evidence to back up your claim if you follow these guidelines. The pinnacle of our work is matching each customer with the ideal vehicle. Amazing cutting-edge safety features are featured in this cutting-edge SUV. Do you also think that this is really fascinating? The Honda CR-V is a fantastic option. Anyone who has heard us boast about this car knows that we think it's a fantastic buy. This is as a result of the Honda CR-V having these features. The spacious cabin of the Honda HR-V renders it a visually appealing and pragmatic choice. honda dealers near me To be honest, everything is going great so far. That being said, the interior is surprisingly roomy for a vehicle of that size. It's highly likely that you are not in the market for a Honda Accord. It ought to be abundantly evident by now that you are the one questioning your authority. Please let us know if you haven't had an opportunity to test or view a new model recently so we can make sure we live up to your expectations. Please let us know if you prefer the most recent model when it is released. You've given a really good analysis. The Honda Accord is more stylish than ever, with a luxurious interior and state-of-the-art technology. The 2017 Honda Accord's wealth of excellent features is one crucial component. Honda Civics are ideal for first-time drivers because of their many safety features and simple smartphone connectivity. If a buyer is knowledgeable and patient, they may be able to negotiate a lower car price if they are bold and ask the right questions.

Any object can be kept in good operating order with routine upkeep and repairs. Your confidence will soar once you've done it.

Honda car dealer near me

As long as you can remember the basics, it doesn't matter where you bought or had your Honda serviced. The proximity of the two locations serves as the primary justification. Like a well-oiled sales and maintenance machine, our first priority is ensuring our customers are satisfied. With the support of the relevant departments, the program has enormous potential for success. You can be confident that our specialists, who have all successfully completed Honda's rigorous training programmes, will provide your vehicle with high-quality service. Our specialty is fixing Honda cars. You may be confident that we'll try our hardest to utilize fewer third-party components. If at all possible, look for a lifetime warranty that covers both parts and servicing. Financially speaking, it's the best option. New tires, authentic Honda parts, aftermarket accessories, and much more are among the numerous items offered here. Until I am certain that I cannot, I will not waver in my commitment to our cause. At Upper Valley Honda, customer satisfaction is our top priority. After 30 days, you can get your money back if you're not satisfied with how we solved your problem. If we take advantage of this chance right away, we can raise our profile in the community.

[stockmarketanalysis]

Complete Guide to Inflation: Understanding, Causes, Effects & Global Case Studies

Inflation is a term that resonates across economies, impacting governments, businesses, and individuals alike. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore inflation, its types, causes, measurements, and global implications using real-world examples, particularly from the Indian stock market and global economies.

What is Inflation?

Inflation refers to the general increase in the prices of goods and services in an economy over time, leading to reduced purchasing power. For instance, if inflation in India is 6%, a product that costs ₹100 today will cost ₹106 next year.

Key Example: Between 2010 and 2022, India experienced average inflation of around 5%-6% annually, causing the prices of essential items like petrol and food staples to soar.

Understanding Inflation in Simple Terms

Inflation occurs when there is too much money chasing too few goods. It can result from increased consumer demand, rising production costs, or expansionary monetary policies by central banks like the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

Types of Inflation

Creeping Inflation: A slow, manageable rise in prices (1%-3% per year).

Walking Inflation: Prices rise moderately, typically between 3%-10%.

Running Inflation: Prices increase rapidly, leading to market instability (10%-20%).

Hyperinflation: Prices skyrocket uncontrollably (50%+ monthly).

Historical Example: Zimbabwe's hyperinflation in 2008 saw inflation rates of 89.7 sextillion percent, rendering the currency worthless.

Inflation in the Indian Stock Market

The Indian stock market often reacts sharply to inflation data. When inflation rises:

Stocks Affected: Consumer goods, real estate, and utility stocks often suffer due to higher production costs.

Sector Resilience: Technology and export-driven companies benefit from a weaker rupee caused by inflation.

Real-World Case: In 2022, when India’s inflation hit 7.79%, the NIFTY 50 saw significant volatility as sectors like IT and FMCG faced cost pressures.

Causes of Inflation

1. Demand-Pull Inflation

When demand surpasses supply, prices increase. For example, festive shopping spikes demand for goods in India, driving up prices.

Example: The surge in demand for electronics and cars during India’s festive season often triggers short-term inflation.

2. Cost-Push Inflation

Rising input costs (wages, raw materials) push prices upward.

Example: The COVID-19 pandemic caused shipping costs to skyrocket, pushing up prices of consumer goods globally.

3. Built-In Inflation

Expectations of future inflation can lead to higher wages and prices in a self-reinforcing cycle.

How Inflation is Measured

Central banks and economists use various indices to measure inflation:

Consumer Price Index (CPI): Tracks changes in retail prices of goods and services.

Wholesale Price Index (WPI): Measures bulk price changes.

Producer Price Index (PPI): Tracks inflation from the perspective of producers.

India’s Inflation Tracking Example: India's CPI tracks inflation across sectors like food, housing, and transportation. In May 2023, India’s retail inflation fell to 4.25%, within the RBI's target range.

Inflation’s Effects on the Economy

1. Consumers and Households

Negative Impact: Higher prices reduce consumers’ purchasing power.

Example: Rising vegetable prices in India strained household budgets in 2022.

2. Businesses

Production Costs: Businesses face rising raw material costs.

Investment Uncertainty: Volatile inflation discourages long-term investments.

3. Investors

Equity Markets: High inflation reduces earnings potential.

Fixed Income: Bonds and fixed deposits lose appeal as real returns decline.

Effects on Savings and Investments

Inflation erodes savings’ value unless returns outpace inflation.

Example: A ₹1 lakh fixed deposit at 5% annual interest generates ₹5,000, but with 6% inflation, the real value decreases, causing a net loss.

Stock Market Insight: In 2022, Indian stock indices like the BSE Sensex experienced swings as inflation data influenced RBI policy decisions.

How Central Banks Control Inflation

Central banks combat inflation through monetary policy adjustments:

1. Interest Rate Hikes

Raising interest rates makes borrowing costly, reducing money supply.

Example: The RBI increased the repo rate by 250 basis points between 2022 and 2023 to curb inflation.

2. Inflation Targeting

Central banks set inflation targets to maintain price stability. India’s inflation target is 4% (+/-2%).

Global Case Studies on Inflation

1. The Great Inflation of the 1970s (US)

Inflation surged due to oil price shocks, causing stagnation in economic growth (stagflation).

The Federal Reserve raised interest rates to 20% in 1981 to tame inflation.

2. Hyperinflation in Germany (1920s)

Post-WWI reparations caused the German mark’s value to collapse.

Example: A loaf of bread cost 250 marks in January 1923 but rose to 200 billion marks by November.

3. India's Inflation Crisis (2013)

India faced high inflation (11%) due to fuel price deregulation and weak rupee value.

The RBI responded by increasing interest rates, stabilizing the economy by 2014.

Research and Statistics on Inflation

IMF 2023 Report: Global inflation averaged 8.8% in 2022, driven by energy and food crises.

World Bank Data: Emerging markets like India maintained inflation below 7% in 2023 due to proactive central bank interventions.

Inflation FAQs

1. What Causes Inflation in Simple Terms?

Inflation occurs when demand exceeds supply or when production costs rise, forcing businesses to charge more.

2. How Does Inflation Affect Investments?

Inflation reduces real returns on fixed-income assets and creates volatility in stock markets.

3. Is Inflation Always Bad?

Moderate inflation (2%-3%) is beneficial, signaling economic growth. However, runaway inflation harms the economy.

Conclusion

Inflation is a critical economic indicator that affects everyone, from policymakers to ordinary citizens. Understanding its causes, types, and effects can help individuals make informed investment decisions, while businesses can adjust strategies to remain competitive. With insights from global and Indian markets, this guide provides a complete picture of inflation and its real-world impact.

[ratrodstudios2]

Snowfall Reverie: A Vintage Christmas.........................

"Snowfall Reverie: A Vintage Christmas" transports viewers to a serene winter scene where nostalgia and holiday cheer converge. In the heart of a softly falling snow, a group of women stands captivated by a gleaming 1932 Ford, adorned with a festive touch for the Christmas season. The vintage car, its lines accentuated by a fresh blanket of snow, becomes a focal point that bridges the past and present.

The 1932 Ford, meticulously rendered with period details, exudes timeless elegance against the winter landscape. The surrounding snow-covered trees and quaint buildings contribute to a picturesque backdrop, creating a harmonious blend of vintage charm and winter magic.

The women, dressed in stylish winter attire, express a sense of camaraderie and shared admiration for the classic automobile. Their breath creates gentle puffs of mist in the crisp winter air as they share stories and laughter, united by the enchanting beauty of the moment. "Snowfall Reverie: A Vintage Christmas" invites viewers to step into a scene where the warmth of friendship, the allure of a timeless automobile, and the quiet grace of a snowy Christmas converge in a celebration of joy and tradition.

Greeting Cards And Artwork By Bob Kramer https://artist.greetingcarduniverse.com/bobkramer

Art By Bob Kramer https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/3-bob-kramer

Art By Bob Kramer https://www.zazzle.com/artbybobkramer

Art By Bob Kramer https://www.redbubble.com/people/BobKramer1/shop?asc=u

Rat Rod Studios https://www.cafepress.com/ratrodstudios/17350621

[personal-reporter]

Summer Jamboree 2023 a Lugano

Dal 22 al 25 giugno 2023 torna a Lugano con la seconda edizione il Summer Jamboree on the Lake, il Festival Internazionale di musica e cultura dell’America più grande al mondo, che sbarca sulle rive del Ceresio. Promosso da Lugano Region, con il patrocinio della Città di Lugano, anche quest’anno il festival vedrà il Rock’n’Roll, marchio di fabbrica del Festival nato a Senigallia 23 anni fa, ormai considerato punto di riferimento per tutti gli amanti del genere. Il Summer Jamboree on the Lake 2023 sarà con quattro giorni di grandi concerti ad ingresso gratuito, distribuiti nei due palchi di Piazza Riforma e Boschetto Ciani, ma non solo, tanti Record Hop con DJs internazionali dal mattino a notte inoltrata accompagneranno i partecipanti in un gioioso viaggio nel tempo. Un bel Vintage Market accoglierà il pubblico in Piazza Manzoni, con espositori selezionati di abbigliamento vintage, scarpe, accessori, oggettistica e riproduzioni, modernariato, memorabilia da collezione ed un Barber shop, oltre ad aree street food & beverage in Piazza Manzoni e a Parco Ciani. Si aggiungeranno tanti altri eventi e progetti pensati per rendere omaggio ad un’epoca straordinaria, come il Car park per auto americane pre 1969 sul Lungolago, tantissimi spazi dedicati al ballo: tra lezioni gratuite per imparare a muovere i primi passi e immergersi nelle danze Swing e Rock’n’Roll e il Summer Jamboree on the Lake Dance Camp, una full immersion dedicata all’apprendimento dei balli Swing e Rock’n’Roll con alcuni tra i migliori ballerini della scena Swing e Rock’n’Roll internazionale, quali Vincenzo Fesi, Moe Sakan, Simona Pogosian, Sandy Lewis, Martí Gasol e Francesco Pezzo. A presentare il festival saranno due artisti eccezionali, già padroni di casa del Summer Jamboree 2022 di Senigallia: come il performer e coreografo Russel Bruner, e la pioniera del Bump&Grind in Italia, Bianca Nevius, che saranno anche i protagonisti di un seducente e ironico Burlesque Show a notte inoltrata sul palco di boschetto Ciani. Al Summer Jamboree on the Lake 2023 si esibiranno artisti internazionali che stanno scrivendo la storia del Rock’n’Roll, raccontata in tutte le sue declinazioni tra R’n’R, Swing, Country, Rockabilly, Rhythm’n’Blues, Hillbilly, Doo-wop, Western swing,  che negli anni è divenuta un culto, che si tramanda di generazione in generazione, sempre attuale e in grado di fare breccia tra persone di tutte le età. Read the full article

[maztroconsulting]

Amod Residency Sector 73 Sarfabad Noida | 1/2/3 BHK Lowrise Apartments

Welcome To Amod Residency, Sector 73, Noida

Amod Residency, Sector 73, Noida: A magnificent lowrise project draped in regal luxury!

  Nestled within a huge expanse of verdant greenery and studded with innumerable lifestyle features, facilities, and amenities, Amod Residency is a dream come true for home seekers in Noida. A royal project by the reputed construction group, Aashi Constructions, the entire rendering is a beautiful fusion of modern design and a posh environment. Crafted to meet your expectations of a luxurious urban lifestyle amidst a great family environment, this elegant development is the place where you can celebrate each day in joyous festivities.

  The project having 55+ apartment units in total, what sets Amod Residency Noida apart from other developments in the region is its unique location advantage. Being just 20 minutes’ away from the National Capital, New Delhi and in close vicinity to an expressway, this magnificent project boasts of many more important destinations like renowned hospitals, educational institutions, major markets & shopping hubs in its close vicinity.

  The project is constructed in Sector 73, Noida city. The city is known for its contemporary lifestyle. Thus the project has lots of amenities like state-of-art clubhouse, swimming pool, car washing points, separate play area for children,

  Elegantly designed apartments, retail facility for shopping, beautifully landscaped area, hassle-free parking, 24 x 7 power back-up & water supply, high-end security, fire fighting system, pollution-free environs, captivating water fountain & sit-out zone, piped gas connection, Wifi connection, et al. The spaces are indeed designed to bestow you with a regal lifestyle.

To present you the best way of stylish and supreme living, Amod Residency has brought a range of smart and lovely apartments to luxury homebuyers in Noida.

  This is one of the finest constructions in Sector 73, Noida at the same prices and hence, visitors are providing positive reviews and overwhelming responses to this property. The developers have made it eco-friendly and execute great green living facilities in the complex.

  The exteriors are very unique here and attract everyone with their magnificent designs. Glorious 1/2/3 BHKs in different sizes and configurations are available here from new bookings.

  The accessibility from Amod Residency Noida is very smooth to the important key areas and major landmarks in NCR. Metro station is just 5 minutes and the upcoming Jewar International Airport is just 30 minutes of drive away from here.

  All the luxury resources, supreme amenities, and world-class facilities are available in the complex. So, select a dream home here today and get the experience of an exotic living in Noida.

  Amod Residency Price is actually too low. Don’t waste time in just thinking, get set go and book your dream residence in the city of Noida. It’s one of the happening cities of the National Capital Region. Thus what are you waiting for? Explore the various payment options and loan facilities.

Maztro Consulting's insight:

Amod Residency, Sector 73, Noida: A magnificent lowrise project draped in regal luxury!

  The project having 55+ apartment units in total, what sets Amod Residency Noida apart from other developments in the region is its unique location advantage. Being just 20 minutes’ away from the National Capital, New Delhi and in close vicinity to an expressway, this magnificent project boasts of many more important destinations like renowned hospitals, educational institutions, major markets & shopping hubs in its close vicinity.

  The project is constructed in Sector 73, Noida city. The city is known for its contemporary lifestyle. Thus the project has lots of amenities like state-of-art clubhouse, swimming pool, car washing points, separate play area for children,

[manjeeth-salian]

Major Project: Concept - 2

"Revving Up the Night: Rendering of the Zakspeed Ford Capri Race Car in an Unconventional Environment"

For the second concept I have the opportunity to work on something distinctively different, yet equally exhilarating. 

My focus for this project is on the legendary Zakspeed Ford Capri race car, which has played a significant role in the automotive industry. However, my challenge was not just to create a stunning rendering of the car, but to place it in an unconventional environment that defies the traditional expectations. 

Inspiration for this project was derived from the extraordinary photograph of Ken Block's Hoonigan taken at night. In the photo, the car is positioned on a city street with wet roads, and the resulting effect is truly awe-inspiring. As soon as I saw it, I knew it would be the perfect inspiration for my rendering. 

Before commence this project, I began researching the Ford Capri race car and familiarizing myself with its unique design and features. As an icon of its time, I aimed to capture the car's essence in my rendering, emphasizing its sleek lines, bold colors, and sharp angles to create a powerful impact. 

Next, I wanted to focus on the perfect environment for the car. I chose a city street at night with wet roads to produce a dramatic effect. This environment would accentuate the car's sleek design, allowing it to stand out against the dark backdrop. Additionally, the wet roads would reflect the car's lights, adding depth and dimension to the scene. 

To further enhance the impact of the rendering, I would use a lower angle shot, creating a sense of depth to the background. 

For this project, I would utilize path trace rendering in Unreal, a powerful tool that would allow me to create powerful and striking automotive rendering that captures the essence of the Ford Capri race car in a completely different environment. The contrast of the car's bold design against the dark, wet street creates an unforgettable effect that truly brings the car to life.

Source: Reference:

Wallhere.com. (2015). Available at: https://get.wallhere.com/photo/Photoshop-sport-night-water-car-reflection-vehicle-photography-evening-atmosphere-wet-Ford-racing-midnight-Mustang-light-weather-outdoor-lighting-darkness-auto-retouch-screenshot-mode-of-transport-phenomenon-needforspeed-nfs-hoonicorn-858021.jpg.

Ultimatecarpage.com. (n.d.). Ford Zakspeed Capri - Chassis: ZAK-G5C-002/80 - 2018 Goodwood Festival of Speed. [online] Available at: https://www.ultimatecarpage.com/img/Ford-Zakspeed-Capri-139350.html.

Wallpaperaccess.com. (2023). Available at: https://wallpaperaccess.com/full/2785081.jpg.